Explorer 4.0 SOHC engine

[Hawg Tracker]

Hey guys want to know from someone who has had actual experience towing a 16 or 17 foot Aluminum boat with Ford's new 210 hp 4.0 SOHC V6 motor...which axle ratio is best for all around economy and towing performance...3:55 /3:73 / 4:10?
I know that the OHC V6 engine has been around for awhile and the SOHC V6 is relatively new, so I am not sure if anyone out there has had any experience with this set up?

[GANGGREEN]

I used to tow with the OHC and the 3.55. I upgraded to the SOHC and told myself that I would also get the tow package with the 3.73. I also tow a 16.5 foot aluminum rig. Mine is fairly heavy for this size of boat (wide, deep, and walk-thru windshield). I never had any trouble towing it with the old rig but I thought that the 3.73 would be better. When I found out that for $380. all you were getting with the tow package was a heavy duty flasher and the different axle ratio, I got mad and decided not to get the package. You would think that they would throw in a Reese style hitch and the pig tail wiring harness, but they don't. I wouldn't think that it costs more to manufacture the 3.73 and if I'm not mistaken you can choose the axle ratio if you order a car without paying extra. I decided that I'd stick with the 3.55. I know a lot of guys are going to suggest that I did the wrong thing but my rig completely loaded with gear and 30 gallons of gas has to weigh less than 2500 pounds. I usually don't tow farther than about 100 miles and I only tow about 15-20 times a year if that. Now I'll get better gas mileage on family trips when I'm not towing and with the price of gas now, that could be significant over 4 or 5 years. I think if you tow very frequently or make long trips that you should probably go with the 3.73, especially if your boat weighs as much as mine. Hope this adds some insight.

[gary s.]

Although I own a Ranger and not an Explorer the engine choices are similar. I have a 97 with the 4.0L. engine [ this is the old 160 hp. motor].I opted for the 3.73 axle and tow a 1775 Pro V with no problem,[however I installed, and higly recommend an aftermarket auxillary transmission cooler]. As for the extra cost for the 3.73 ratio, I believe the extra cost is justified because the package includes the 'posi-trac, no-slip' rear end. The extra traction this provides on boat launch ramps, or winter driving, make this option a 'no-brainer' in my opinion. I'd go with the 3.73 posi axle.